2026 Nominees /

Blake Mozer - Brisbane Broncos

Blake Mozer exemplifies the values of the Ken Stephen Medal through his humility, leadership and commitment to helping others. Since making his NRL debut, he has become a key contributor to the Brisbane Broncos’ community programs. For the past two years, he has volunteered for fortnightly children’s hospital visits, building meaningful connections with patients, families and staff. Blake regularly encourages teammates to engage in community initiatives and mentors younger players on giving back. His impact is reflected in the lasting relationships he has formed and the hundreds he has positively influenced, including through representing the Broncos and promoting the Beyond the Broncos program.

Xavier Savage - Canberra Raiders

Xavier Savage serves as an ambassador for Raw Potential, supporting young people facing homelessness, trauma, family and domestic violence, mental health challenges and substance-related issues. Alongside his football commitments, he regularly volunteers his time through mentoring days and community events. Xavier participates in listening sessions, Q&A discussions and motivational talks, sharing personal experiences to promote resilience, discipline and hope. His involvement focuses on ongoing engagement rather than one-off appearances, helping strengthen connections between young people and support services. Through his approachable nature and lived experience, Xavier provides guidance and encouragement, helping young people build confidence, set goals and pursue positive futures.

Viliame Kikau - Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs

Viliami Kikau consistently goes above and beyond his commitments as a professional rugby league player through his dedication to supporting communities across Fiji. Through the Kikau Academy, he invests significant time and resources into creating opportunities for young people through sport, mentorship and personal development. His work helps build confidence, resilience, leadership skills and aspirations for the future. In 2025, he led a Christmas initiative with Kidstuff, delivering toys to 200 children across Fiji. His ongoing commitment to giving back reflects strong leadership and responsibility, using his profile to create opportunities, inspire young people and make a lasting impact.

Thomas Hazelton - Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks

Tom Hazelton consistently goes above and beyond his responsibilities as an NRL player through his dedication to community engagement, mental health advocacy and grassroots rugby league. As an ambassador for Find Ya Feet, he promotes open conversations around mental health and regularly volunteers his time to speak with Sharks pathways players and teammates about seeking support. A committed participant in Sharks Have Heart initiatives, Tom engages with schools, junior clubs and vulnerable community members, while also supporting disability programs including SCORE Sharks and Mega Jaws. He maintains strong ties to Goulburn and continues inspiring young players through his leadership, humility and compassion.

Moeaki Fotuaika - Gold Coast Titans

Moeaki Fotuaika has consistently demonstrated an outstanding commitment to community service throughout his career, using his platform to make a positive impact beyond rugby league. A long-serving member of the Gold Coast Titans, he has become a respected leader on and off the field. Across grassroots rugby league, school programs, inclusion initiatives, cultural events and community appearances, Moeaki regularly volunteers his time with humility, authenticity and genuine care. Passionate about mentoring young people, he established a mentoring program at his former school and is currently completing a youth work course, further reflecting his dedication to supporting youth and creating lasting community impact.

Jack Bostock - Dolphins

Jack has consistently gone above and beyond his on-field and club commitments, demonstrating leadership and genuine care for the community. Following Jacek “Yak” McLaurin’s catastrophic spinal injury, he played a key role in rallying support, using his social media platforms to raise awareness, promote fundraising efforts and maintain community engagement. He remains actively involved in ongoing initiatives and encourages wider participation. At the club, Jack leads community appearances and prioritises meaningful interactions with fans, particularly at training sessions. Before entering the NRL, he worked as a support worker, reflecting a long-standing commitment to helping others and making a difference.

Jamal Fogarty - Manly Warringah Sea Eagles

Jamal consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting others through his generosity, compassion and willingness to give his time beyond football. His impact is reflected in the meaningful connections he builds with community members and families facing difficult circumstances. After learning of young Sea Eagles fan Cam’s battle with DIPG, Jamal personally visited him in hospital, spending valuable time with Cam and his family. He later helped create special game-day memories and has remained in regular contact, providing ongoing support and encouragement. Jamal also proudly shared his Indigenous culture at the club’s Multicultural Evening and actively supports community and charitable initiatives.

Ativalu Lisati - Melbourne Storm

Ativalu Lisati consistently goes above and beyond his responsibilities as a Melbourne Storm player by dedicating significant personal time to community and charity initiatives that create lasting impact. A proud Samoan representative, he plays a leading role in the Storm Waka program, mentoring Māori and Pasifika youth through cultural connection, wellbeing support and life guidance. Beyond club commitments, Ativalu has developed strong connections with organisations such as Giant Steps, where he volunteers his time supporting children with autism and assisting with fundraising initiatives. He is also actively involved with Melbourne 614 and The Salvation Army, contributing to efforts supporting people experiencing homelessness through practical service and compassion. 

Phoenix Crossland - Newcastle Knights

Phoenix Crossland has been one of the Newcastle Knights’ most dedicated community contributors this season. A leader in the School BLITZ and Knights on Tour programs, he has generously given his time to school visits and grassroots rugby league communities across the region, building meaningful connections with fans and young people. Beyond club initiatives, Phoenix has made several personal visits to the children’s hospital, supporting children and families during difficult times. He has also invested in the next generation of players by attending Pathways training sessions and presenting awards at the Pathways presentation evening. His growing impact reflects a genuine commitment to the Hunter region.

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Erin Clark - New Zealand Warriors

Erin Clark has consistently gone above and beyond his on-field and club commitments through his dedication to community engagement and positive social impact. He regularly volunteers time to visit children and families at Starship Hospital, offering encouragement and support during difficult times. Erin is also actively involved in grassroots rugby league, attending local club visits and mentoring young players through guidance and connection. Through his ongoing support of the Warriors Community Foundation, he contributes to school visits and wellbeing initiatives, including the League in Libraries – Rīki i ngā Whare Pukapuka programme, which promotes literacy, confidence and positive life habits among tamariki.

Murray Taulagi - North Queensland Cowboys

Murray Taulagi exemplifies community service through his genuine commitment to supporting others and creating positive change. A long-time supporter of the Cowboys in Capes program, he consistently dedicates time to connecting with young people facing challenges across the region, bringing empathy, encouragement and positivity to every interaction. Demonstrating initiative beyond his regular commitments, Murray has sought additional opportunities to give back, including visiting patients at the local hospital on Christmas Day. His authentic approach and willingness to engage meaningfully have left a lasting impact on individuals and families. His humility, leadership and dedication make him a respected role model on and off the field.

Josh Addo-Carr - Parramatta Eels

Josh Addo-Carr consistently demonstrates a deep commitment to community service, dedicating his time, resources and leadership to supporting Indigenous and local communities. Through JAC Academy, he regularly visits remote communities and schools including Redfern, Yarrabah, Palm Island, Townsville and Cairns, promoting education, wellbeing and youth development. He actively supports organisations such as Tribal Warrior and Redfern Youth Connect, contributes to improving access to fresh food, and helps create employment pathways through NDIGI GROUP. Through LET’S TROT, he supports grassroots sport and Indigenous-owned businesses, while his Fox Development Squad provides mentorship opportunities. He also visits sick children and donates time, messages and merchandise.

Mitch Kenny - Penrith Panthers

Mitch has played a vital role in strengthening the Club’s engagement with the local hospital community. His initiative has helped increase the Club’s visits from once a year to three annually. At a recent visit, he organised for more than 20 NRL players to attend and spend meaningful time with patients across multiple areas of the hospital, including both young and older patients. Mitch has also been involved in Panthers Foundation education programs and spoke at the Foundation Gala Dinner in 2025, sharing his appreciation for the community and the importance of giving back. His contributions reflect a strong commitment to expanding the Club’s community impact and fostering meaningful connections beyond the field.

Campbell Graham - South Sydney Rabbitohs

Campbell Graham is recognised not only as one of the South Sydney Rabbitohs’ most dynamic players, but also as a dedicated community leader. An active contributor to Souths Cares programs, he regularly participates in school engagement visits, delivering workshops focused on healthy relationships and wellbeing as part of an initiative reaching more than 25,000 students across Sydney each year. Beyond his commitments with the Rabbitohs, Campbell maintains a strong relationship with the St Vincent de Paul Society, volunteering with the Vinnies Vans to provide food and support to people experiencing homelessness across Sydney. His sustained commitment reflects generosity, leadership and strong character.

Dylan Egan - St. George Illawarra Dragons

Dylan Egan, a proud product of the Gerringong Lions and current member of the St George Illawarra Dragons, has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to community and charity work throughout his early NRL career. Since making his debut in 2025, he has embodied the values of the Dragons and the wider community, focusing on positively impacting people across the region. Dylan is actively involved in school visits and assemblies, engaging students through Q&A sessions and one-on-one interactions. His involvement in programs such as “The Best You Can Be,” Junior League Respect sessions, and Vinnies Van reflects his commitment to meaningful community engagement.

James Tedesco - Sydney Roosters

James Tedesco is recognised as captain of the Sydney Roosters and a committed community leader who uses his profile to support charitable initiatives. A long-time supporter of the Sporting Chance Cancer Foundation, he has helped raise funds for the James Tedesco Outreach Program, supporting children with cancer and their families. He is also an ambassador for Greyhounds As Pets NSW, promoting rehoming and responsible adoption. Beyond formal partnerships, he has contributed to community support initiatives in Bondi, helping bring people together following the tragic events of December 2024. His leadership reflects empathy, humility and a strong commitment to community wellbeing.

Jahream Bula - Wests Tigers

Jahream Bula has demonstrated a strong commitment to community engagement, youth development and giving back through his ongoing involvement with the Wests Tigers. A key participant in the club’s Community School Blitz program, he regularly visits schools across the Tigers’ catchment area, delivering presentations and rugby league clinics that encourage students to pursue their goals, value education and build resilience. Known for his ability to connect with young people, Jahream uses his experiences as a professional athlete to inspire the next generation. He also supports junior rugby league clubs and community programs, consistently volunteering his time to uplift others and promote positive role modelling.